Polaris Sportsman 850SP User Manual (English)

Cody JonesAug 13, 2025

What to do if my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine turns over but fails to start?

P
Paul KnappAug 13, 2025
If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle's engine turns over but fails to start, first, refuel if you are out of fuel, cycling the key to the ON position three times for 5 seconds each before starting. If water is present in the fuel, drain the fuel system and refuel. If you are using old or non-recommended fuel, replace it with fresh, recommended fuel. Inspect the spark plugs for fouling or defects and replace them if necessary. Also, check for spark at the spark plug and verify that the stop switch is on. If the battery voltage is low, recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC. For water or fuel in the crankcase or mechanical failure, consult your POLARIS dealer immediately.

Brand	Polaris
Model	Sportsman 850SP
Category	Offroad Vehicle
Language	English

Brand

Polaris

Model

Sportsman 850SP

INTRODUCTION

Signal Words and Symbols

Explains the meaning of signal words like DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, NOTICE, and safety signs.

Vehicle Identification Numbers

Instructions to record VIN, Frame VIN, Engine Serial Number, and Key Number for reference.

SAFETY

Safety Training

Encourages ATV safety training and provides information on how to obtain it.

Safe Riding Gear

Details protective clothing and gear recommended for safe ATV operation.

General Safety Warnings

Lists critical warnings for operating the ATV safely, including age restrictions.

Operational Safety Precautions

Covers advice on handling gasoline, exhaust, alcohol/drugs, passengers, and road use.

Terrain and Driving Hazards

Warns about risks associated with speed, terrain, and conditions like hills and water.

Vehicle Condition and Use Warnings

Addresses hazards related to vehicle condition, tires, and operating in reverse.

Specific Hazard Warnings

Covers warnings for obstacles, slippery surfaces, and deep water.

Load and Visibility Warnings

Addresses risks from improper cargo loading, frozen water, and poor visibility.

Component and Usage Warnings

Highlights warnings about damaged ATVs, hot exhaust, and unauthorized use.

Safety Labels and Locations

Advises reading and following instructions on vehicle warning labels.

Model-Specific Safety Warnings

Covers discretionary, age, and drive system warnings specific to the model.

Load and Passenger Warnings

Emphasizes warnings against passengers and proper tire/load management.

Rack and Hitch Capacity

Specifies maximum rack loads and hitch towing capacities.

FEATURES AND CONTROLS

Switches

Identifies and describes key switches on the handlebar, including mode and drive controls.

Automatic Transmission Gear Selector

Details the gear selector positions and essential shifting procedures.

Throttle Lever

Explains the operation of the throttle lever and its safety features.

Brake Lever

Explains how to use the brake lever and its safety checks.

Master Cylinder/Brake Fluid

Details how to check and maintain brake fluid levels and associated warnings.

Parking Brake

Explains how to lock and release the parking brake and its safety considerations.

Auxiliary Foot Brake

Describes the auxiliary foot brake and its usage precautions.

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

Explains the function of the Electronic Power Steering system.

Fuel Tank

Provides instructions and precautions for refueling the vehicle.

All Wheel Drive System

Explains how the All Wheel Drive system is controlled by the 4X4 switch.

Instrument Cluster

Provides an overview of the instrument cluster and its maintenance.

OPERATION

Break-In Period

Outlines the recommended break-in period for new vehicles.

Pre-Ride Checklist

Lists essential checks to perform before operating the ATV.

Safe Operation Practices

Lists fundamental safety practices for operating the ATV.

Know Your Riding Area/Tread Lightly

Advises familiarization with riding areas and responsible trail use.

Starting the Engine

Provides step-by-step instructions for starting the engine.

Driving Procedures

Outlines the basic steps for safely driving the vehicle.

Turning the Vehicle

Explains how to properly turn the ATV, including leaning technique.

Driving on Slippery Surfaces

Provides precautions for driving on slippery surfaces like wet trails or gravel.

Driving Uphill

Offers precautions and techniques for driving uphill safely.

Driving on a Sidehill (Sidehilling)

Advises against sidehilling and provides precautions if unavoidable.

Driving Downhill

Provides precautions and techniques for driving downhill safely.

Parking on an Incline

Advises on precautions for parking the vehicle on an incline.

Turning Around on a Hill (K-Turn)

Explains the K-turn procedure for turning around on a hill.

Driving Through Water

Provides precautions for operating the ATV through water.

Driving Over Obstacles

Offers precautions for safely navigating over obstacles.

Driving in Reverse

Provides precautions for operating the ATV in reverse.

Hauling Cargo

Provides critical precautions for hauling cargo.

Towing Loads

Explains how to properly attach and tow loads.

WINCH GUIDE

Winch Safety Precautions

Lists essential safety precautions for operating a winch.

Winch Operation

Provides general guidance and steps for operating the winch.

Winch Cable Care

Provides guidance on inspecting and caring for winch cables.

Shock Loading

Explains the dangers of shock loading winch cables and how to avoid it.

Winch Maintenance and Service Safety

Details safety precautions related to winch maintenance and service.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS

Noise Emission Control System

Advises against modifying exhaust components to maintain compliance.

Operation on Public Lands in the U.S.A.

Covers regulations for operating off-road vehicles on public lands.

Crankcase Emission Control System

Explains the crankcase emission control system.

Exhaust Emission Control System

Describes how exhaust emissions are controlled by engine design.

Electromagnetic Interference

Discusses compliance with EMC requirements and electromagnetic energy.

MAINTENANCE

Periodic Maintenance Chart

Introduces the periodic maintenance chart and general service advice.

Severe Use Definition

Defines conditions that constitute severe use requiring more frequent service.

Maintenance Chart Key

Explains the symbols used in the periodic maintenance chart.

Lubrication Guide

Provides a guide for lubricating all vehicle components at specified intervals.

Engine Oil

Recommends specific POLARIS engine oils and provides oil level checking instructions.

Oil and Filter Change

Provides step-by-step instructions for changing engine oil and filter.

Transmission Oil

Recommends POLARIS AGL fluid and outlines oil check/change procedures.

Front Gearcase (Demand Drive) Fluid

Details fluid recommendations and procedures for the front gearcase.

Rear Gearcase Oil

Recommends oil and outlines procedures for checking and changing rear gearcase oil.

Power Steering Unit

Advises on cleaning the power steering unit for proper cooling.

Steering Assembly

Recommends checking the steering assembly for loose nuts and bolts.

Cooling System

Explains the cooling system operation and coolant recommendations.

Brakes

Explains how to check the hand brake system and auxiliary foot brake.

Toe Alignment

Provides a procedure to check toe alignment and warnings about adjustment.

Seat Removal

Explains the steps for removing the vehicle seat.

Side Panel/Footwell Removal

Details how to remove side panels or footwells.

Tires

Warns about tire condition and maintenance for safe handling.

Wheel Removal

Provides steps for removing a vehicle wheel.

Wheel Installation

Provides steps for installing a vehicle wheel.

Air Filter

Provides step-by-step instructions for inspecting and cleaning the air filter.

Fuse Replacement

Explains how to replace fuses and locate the fuse box.

Lights

Discusses the importance of proper lighting and maintenance.

Spark Plugs

Recommends specific spark plug types and torque settings, and how to inspect them.

Vehicle Immersion

Outlines steps for inspecting and drying the vehicle after water immersion.

Spark Arrester

Explains how to periodically purge accumulated carbon from the spark arrester.

PVT System

Warns about PVT system modifications and outlines owner responsibilities for safety.

Camber and Caster

States that camber and caster are non-adjustable.

Front and Rear Springs

Explains how to adjust shock absorber springs and mentions accessory springs.

Handlebars

Explains how to adjust the handlebars for rider preference with safety warnings.

Throttle Body/Idle RPM

Notes that idle RPM is preset and advises consulting dealer for adjustments.

Throttle Cable Freeplay

Explains how to check and adjust throttle cable freeplay.

Battery

Provides safety warnings for battery cables and general battery care.

Cleaning and Storage

Outlines procedures for washing, polishing, and storing the vehicle.

Transporting the ATV

Provides steps for safely transporting the ATV.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Drive Belt Wear/Burn

Lists possible causes and solutions for drive belt wear or burning.

Engine Doesn't Turn Over

Lists possible causes and solutions for the engine not turning over.

Engine Turns Over, Fails to Start

Lists possible causes and solutions for engine failure to start.

Engine Backfires

Lists possible causes and solutions for engine backfiring.

Engine Pings or Knocks

Lists possible causes and solutions for engine pinging or knocking.

Engine Runs Irregularly, Stalls or Misfires

Lists possible causes and solutions for irregular engine operation.

Engine Stops or Loses Power

Lists possible causes and solutions for the engine stopping or losing power.

Engine Overheating

Lists possible causes and solutions for engine overheating.

SPECIFICATIONS

SPORTSMAN 850 / 850 SP

Lists detailed specifications for the Sportsman 850 and 850 SP models.

SPORTSMAN XP 1000

Lists detailed specifications for the Sportsman XP 1000 model.

WARRANTY

Limited Warranty

Outlines the terms of the limited warranty provided by POLARIS.

Registration

Explains the process for registering the vehicle for warranty coverage.

Warranty Coverage And Exclusions

Lists limitations and exclusions of the warranty coverage.

How To Obtain Warranty Service

Explains the process for obtaining warranty service from a dealer.

Exported Products

States the warranty policy for products sold outside the authorized country.

U.S.A. EPA Emissions Limited Warranty

Details the emissions warranty for vehicles conforming to EPA regulations.

California Residents

Addresses specific warranty considerations for California residents.

Polaris Sportsman 850SP User Manual

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers:

Polaris Sportsman 850SP Specifications

Summary